Do I need an immigration attorney?

The short answer is no; it’s not mandatory to use an immigration attorney for the DAFT application, but it is highly advised - first and foremost, for peace of mind. Moving is challenging enough without the added stress of arranging documents and applying for residency in a foreign country. Many DAFT applicants find the online information from the Dutch immigration authorities (the ‘IND’) difficult to interpret or struggle to identify what is relevant to their specific circumstances. And all correspondence with the IND is in Dutch.

Furthermore, the application process changes frequently, making it even more challenging for non-Dutch persons with no understanding of Dutch law.

Do any of these situations apply to you?

• You are applying for the first time and want to prevent false starts or unnecessary delays.

• You are unsure whether you qualify for the DAFT program.

• You want to secure DAFT residency before arriving in The Netherlands.

• You don’t want to rely on outdated or incorrect advice from non-attorneys on social media, blogs, or forums.

• You have a complex situation, such as a non-U.S. spouse or adult child, and are unsure which supporting documents are required.

• You want trusted referrals for affordable tax specialists, real estate agents, utility providers, and other services.

• You want expert guidance and reassurance throughout the application process.

If you answered yes to any of these, then working with an experienced Dutch immigration attorney - one who is a member of the Dutch Bar Association, completes continuing education, and is subject to disciplinary measures for malpractice - is highly recommended.

Have more questions? Need more help? Schedule a one-hour consultation with Attorney Stephan Roelofs today.